How to use a coupon code in the UAE (and why some codes fail)

A promo code takes about ten seconds to use, but it can fail for reasons that are easy to miss. This guide walks through the process and explains what to check when a code doesn't work.

Using a code, step by step

1. Find the offer. Search for the store on UAE Coupon and open its page. Codes show a "Show Code" button; deals don't need a code at all.
2. Reveal and copy. Click "Show Code". The code appears in a pop-up and is copied to your clipboard, and the store opens in a new tab.
3. Fill your basket. Add the items you want. Check the offer's terms first, because many codes need a minimum spend or only cover some categories.
4. Paste at checkout. Look for a box labelled "Promo code", "Coupon", "Voucher" or "Discount code". It's usually in the cart or on the payment page. Paste the code and press apply.
5. Check the total. The discount should appear as its own line before you pay. If it doesn't, don't pay yet: read the error message and see the list below.

Seven reasons a code is rejected

1. It's for new customers only

First-order codes are the most generous, and stores check your account, phone number and sometimes your card. If you have ordered before, pick a code that doesn't say "new customers".

2. The basket is below the minimum spend

Many UAE codes need a minimum order, such as AED 100 or AED 200. The minimum usually counts the price after other discounts and before delivery.

3. Some items are excluded

Electronics, fragrance, gift cards and certain brands are often excluded. If your basket mixes eligible and excluded items, the code might apply to part of it or not at all.

4. It only works in the app, or only on the website

Stores sometimes run app-only codes to push downloads. The offer terms on UAE Coupon say when a code is app-only.

5. It has expired or reached its usage limit

Popular codes can run out before their end date. We show when every offer was last verified; if a code fails, try the next one on the page and let us know with the thumbs-down button.

6. It can't be combined with the sale price

Some stores block codes on items that are already reduced. Look for "not valid on sale items" in the terms.

7. There's a typing error

Copying from UAE Coupon avoids typos, but watch for spaces pasted before or after the code. Codes are usually not case-sensitive, but some are.

Get more out of every code

• Check the cap. A 20% code with a maximum of AED 50 is worth less than it looks on a large order.
• Stack with bank offers. Many UAE banks have card offers that apply on top of a store code.
• Time it right. The best codes cluster around White Friday, 11.11, the Dubai Shopping Festival and Ramadan.

Found a code that works and isn't on our site? Send it to us and we'll verify it for everyone.